In this episode of the Queerfully Made Podcast, hosts Aaron Kelly and Ben Nicholson sit down with Ps. Marcy Paynter, Senior Pastor, and Ps. Beth Bolmers, Pastoral Staff, from Gateway Church in Melbourne. This powerful conversation dives into Gateway’s transformative journey to becoming an affirming church, embracing LGBTQ+ inclusion with open hearts.Ps. Marcy shares her personal story, which began long before the church’s shift. She opens up about what sparked her commitment to inclusion, the challenges of leading a congregation through change, and her vision for a future where faith communities fully affirm LGBTQ+ individuals. Ps. Beth offers her perspective as a staff member who’s been part of the journey from the start, reflecting on how the shift reshaped the church’s culture, brought both growth and loss, and deepened their mission of love.Together, they explore what it truly means to be an affirming church. Moving beyond tolerance to active celebration of diverse identities. They candidly discuss the losses Gateway faced, including members who left, and the profound gains in community, authenticity, and impact.For more information on Gateway Church, head to their website: https://www.gateway.asn.au/ What does an affirming church mean to you? Share in the comments! 🫶#queerfullymade #lgbtq #lgbtqchristian #lesbian #gay #bi #trans #queer #christian #lgbtqinclusion #church #faithandsexuality #affirmingchurch #gatewaychurch #marcypaynter #bethbolmers #lgbtqfaith #authenticity #podcast #inclusivefaith